Cornell Asian Alumni Association

About CAAA

Mission Statement

Founded in 1990, the Cornell Asian Alumni Association (CAAA) serves the needs and interests of Asian alumni, Asian students and the University. Our objectives are to:

• maintain an international network of Asian alumni from Cornell
• promote greater Asian alumni involvement in all aspects of University affairs
• support the academic and career development of Asian students on campus
• facilitate the exchange of ideas and information between Asian alumni, Asian students and the University
• and increase the awareness of the University to outstanding Asian students and encourage their application process.

Programs and Activities

CAAA sponsors lectures, career development seminars, networking events, social functions, fundraising events, and undergraduate support activities. It is also involved in admissions and community service. Each year, CAAA awards two Tradition Fellowships and one Scholarship to Cornell students. In New York City, events are occasionally cosponsored with other Cornell alumni organizations, and with the Asian Alumni Network, a consortium of Asian alumni organizations.

Social, Educational & Other Events

Throughout the year, CAAA sponsors a range of events in New York City to give alumni an opportunity to renew old friendships and make new ones. These include lectures, dining events, alumni book signings, recreational activities, and more. Each year, CAAA hosts the CAAA Banquet to raise money for its scholarship funds and other CAAA projects, the Dating Game to raise funds for undergraduate support programs, the Asian American Quiz Game Show to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, and an Annual Picnic for alumni and their families.

Career Development & Networking

CAAA sponsors several career development seminars and networking events each year. Members may also participate in the Metro New York Cornell Career Networking Service. CAAA also plans to launch a series of industry-specific roundtable dinners.

Undergraduate Support

Today, more than ever, Asian students can learn from the professional and personal experiences of many Asian alumni. The Cornell Asian Student/Alumni Mentorship Program pairs students with alumni for academic and career advice via the Internet. Each year, CAAA sponsors the Asian Career Connection, an on-campus career panel for students, and Student-Alumni Brunches, informal career-focused gatherings that take place during spring break.

CAAA offers two Cornell Tradition Fellowships to recognize outstanding students who best demonstrate a commitment to helping themselves through work, academic achievement and volunteer community service. The Cornell Asian Alumni Association Scholarship also provides financial aid. All three are administered by Cornell University. Since 1992, CAAA has raised nearly $150,000 for scholarship funds, and has awarded 18 grants to Cornell students.

Partnering with the University

CAAA members help identify the next generation of Cornellians by participating in the Cornell Alumni Admissions Ambassador Network and college fairs. CAAA contributes to Cornell's financial well-being by establishing scholarships and participating in the University's fundraising efforts. In Spring 2001, the CAAA Asian Art Acquisition Fund enabled the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art to purchase several pieces of art for its galleries. CAAA encourages Asian alumni to become more involved in the life of the University. We believe that Asian alumni can add a new dimension to areas such as admissions, financial aid and policy development.

Community Service

CAAA provides support to worthwhile community projects and encourages its members to participate in their local neighborhoods to make a difference.